In today's interconnected world, business travel is a constant hum for many companies. But have you considered the environmental impact of all those flights, train rides, and rental cars? This is where Scope 3, Category 6 emissions come in.
Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are categorized based on their source in relation to a company's operations. Scope 1 and 2 emissions are directly under a company's control (think fuel combustion and purchased electricity). Scope 3 emissions, however, are indirect and occur throughout a company's value chain. Business travel falls squarely into this category.
Defined by the GHG Protocol, Scope 3, Category 6 encompasses the indirect GHG emissions generated by employee travel for business purposes. This excludes their daily commute. Essentially, it's the carbon footprint of all those business trips - airplanes, trains, rental cars, and even personal vehicles used for work.
Business travel emissions can be a significant contributor to a company's overall carbon footprint, often exceeding direct emissions (Scopes 1 & 2). By understanding and quantifying these emissions, companies can:
The GHG Protocol offers various methodologies for calculating these emissions. Common methods include:
Managing Scope 3 emissions, particularly those from business travel, can be complex. StepChange offers a powerful solution to streamline this process:
By partnering with StepChange, you can gain a clear understanding of your business travel emissions and make data-driven decisions to reduce your environmental impact.
Understanding Scope 3, Category 6 emissions is crucial for businesses looking to reduce their environmental footprint. You can contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet by taking action. StepChange can be your partner in this journey, empowering you to measure, analyze, and reduce your business travel emissions effectively.